From the rhythmic sounds of a bustling roller rink to the introspective moments of ministry, Minister Janine Folks has lived a life marked by resilience, creativity, and compassion. As a licensed and ordained minister, the author of over 14 books, and an accomplished grief counselor, she has dedicated herself to bringing hope and healing to others.
Her journey reflects a rich blend of experiences and roles, each showcasing her commitment to faith, family, and service. Whether counseling individuals through grief, inspiring others through her writing, or ministering to her community, Minister Janine embodies a spirit of empowerment and encouragement.
VBD Magazine is honored to feature Minister Janine and celebrate her extraordinary contributions to faith-based leadership and the art of healing. Her story serves as a source of inspiration for all who seek to transform life’s challenges into opportunities to serve and uplift others.
EARLY LIFE AND FAMILY LEGACY
Born in 1970 to young parents in Detroit, Michigan, Minister Janine’s early years were steeped in the vibrant culture of roller skating. Her grandparents founded the Rollercade Roller Rink in 1955, which remains the longest continuously operated Black-owned roller rink in America. Her father and his siblings managed the rink, making it a central part of the family’s life and livelihood.
“Skating wasn’t just a pastime for us; it was our way of life,” Minister Janine shares. “They had me in roller skates by my first birthday, before I could even walk well. The rink wasn’t just a business; it was a sanctuary where people came to escape life’s challenges, even if only for a few hours.”
Growing up in the family business, Minister Janine learned the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and customer care under the guidance of her grandmother. “My grandmother was a master marketer and creative,” she recalls. “She taught me about business, people skills, and the importance of fostering relationships.”
A LIFE INTERTWINED WITH MINISTRY AND WRITING
Minister Janine’s journey into ministry and writing began almost simultaneously. Raised by two praying grandmothers, her faith was nurtured early. “At age nine, I felt called to be baptized, and that’s also when I discovered my love for writing,” she says. Encouraged by her grandmother, she began writing newsletters for the rink and quickly found her voice in storytelling.
For Minister Janine, roller skating, writing, and ministry are deeply connected. “Skating is a special kind of fellowship. It’s where people leave their troubles behind, just as they do when they seek God,” she explains. “It brings balance, coordination, and resilience—not just to the body but to the soul.”
MINISTRY FOCUSED ON WOMEN AND FAMILIES
Although Minister Janine never set out to focus solely on women’s ministry, her experiences naturally led her in that direction. “I didn’t seek to become a licensed minister; it sought me,” she says. “My primary message is to inspire people to be positive, grateful, and hopeful, no matter what. I want them to know the love of our Creator.”
Minister Janine’s work as a Hospice Chaplain and grief counselor adds depth to her ministry. Her passion for these roles was ignited during a harrowing experience in 2003 when her two-year-old son faced a life-threatening illness. “That time taught me about anticipatory grief and theodicy—questions about why God allows suffering,” she reflects. “It also showed me where real ministry happens—at the bedside, holding a hand, listening.”
Her experience led her to pursue Clinical Pastoral Education, eventually working with pediatric and adult hospice patients. “In those roles, I’ve seen God’s presence in ways I never experienced in church,” she shares. “It’s about fostering introspection and meeting people where they are, without judgment.”
A VOICE OF HOPE AND HEALING
Minister Janine has authored over 14 books, spanning topics from inspirational poetry to roller skating fundamentals. Her writing process, she says, is more about listening than creating. “Ideas come to me as if I’m taking dictation. When I try to force it, it doesn’t work,” she says. “Writing is an act of discipline and obedience for me.”
Among her many works, AJ’s Miracle holds a special place. “It chronicles the miracle of my son’s recovery and the lessons I learned during that time,” she says. Another standout is her coloring book Grief to Growth, which she has incorporated into workshops to help others process their grief.
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